Family Business Has Artistic Collections Family. That is where it all starts and likely where it all ends. That is certainly the case with Rita Houska. Many years ago her father had an antique store in the Yankton Mall. In 2009, she took over a small corner of his store to sell gifts and women’s accessories. It wasn’t much, maybe 150 square feet. Soon, her purses, jewelry and other accessories took over the coveted window space, and she just kept growing. When her father chose to close the antique store, well, she just kept going. After moving to a couple of different locations within the Yankton Mall, Rita’s Purse-ONalities eventually settled into the location she has now been in for over four years. Many things have changed throughout the years for Rita, but one constant never changed: family run. Rita’s daughter, son, husband and sisters have all been a part of the successful running of this family business. In fact, her daughter has now taken over a portion of Rita’s Purse O’Nalities – Totally Twisted T’s – and specializes in personalized clothing and accessories using vinyl and crystals. Last fall the final piece of Rita’s dream fell into place when she opened yet another store. Re-claimed Memories is full of Rita’s own barn wood art pieces and reclaimed treasures, many built by Rita and her husband. Most of the pieces are artistic, and functional as well. Hallway and coat racks, jewelry holder and mirrors are all incorporated into many of her projects. Rita and her husband venture out and tear down old barns to get wood with intense character. No two are ever the same, and can be personalized for each customer, including names and special sayings. Add a little bit of vision, a few tools and elbow grease and some pretty unique wall hanging projects appear. vMyths Myth #2: The shorter I cut the grass, the less often I need to mow. Truth: For the best quality turf, only remove one-third of the grass blade with each mow. Shorter clippings break down more easily, allowing some of the natural nitrogen to return to the soil. If you cut too much at one time, the long clippings can cause stress on the grass, inhibiting healthy growth. back to the soil. As noted above, removing only a small amount of the grass blade each time you mow produces shorter clippings that can decompose more quickly and discourages the development of fungal diseases. If you do decide to bag, be sure to compost your clippings and reuse on site. Look for a lawn tractor, like the John Deere X300 Select Series, which comes with a mulching feature on the mowing deck, to help return the clippings to the soil. turn yield a beautiful lawn. Consider taking a soil sample to your local university extension program or landscape supplier for soil analysis. This will help determine the best type of fertilizer to use throughout the year. so you can take a break from lawn care; however, this is the best time to care for your equipment. Complete mower maintenance such as adding fuel stabilizer, blade sharpening and replacing missing or damaged parts and your mower will be prepped and ready come springtime. Myth # 3: Bagging it is best. Truth: Although bagging grass clippings is a common practice, mulching is much more beneficial to your lawn. Mulching returns essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, Myth #4: Focus on the green. Truth: While grass is what we see and tend to, the soil is the most essential component for a healthy growth year-round. Soil supplies the roots with necessary nutrients, which in continued from page 13 Myth #5: Keep a consistent mowing pattern. Truth: It’s easy to fall into a mowing routine, but frequently cutting grass in the same direction can mat down the turf and inhibit growth. By varying the mowing pattern, you will reduce strain on the turf and encourage a healthier, more beautiful lawn. Myth # 6: You’re off duty in the winter. Truth: Many people think grass “dies” off in the winter v Editorial provided by Re-Claimed Memories Aside from practicing the proper mowing techniques, having the right equipment is one of the most important factors in maintaining a green and vibrant lawn. The proper type and size for your lawn and lifestyle will help you mow more efficiently so you can spend more time enjoying and less time maintaining your lawn. v MetroCreative Connection “We’ve Got You Covered!” arpet arse n C L 212 Walnut, Historic Downtown Yankton, (605) 665-2067 • larsencarpet@iw.net Mon.-Fri. 10am-5:30pm, Sat. 9am-Noon, weekends & evenings by appointment Carpet • Vinyl • Laminate • Wood TODAY’S HOME - Spring 2015 • 15